Just like people, dogs are very good at communicating through body language, but it takes practice for people to understand what a dog’s face and body are saying. The majority of dog bites do not come from aggressive dogs. Any dog can bite, especially scared or startled dogs. Follow these do's and don't when interacting with unfamiliar dogs to prevent bits:
Do:
- Remain still when approached by an unfamiliar dog
- Ask a dog handler before approaching or petting an unfamiliar dog
- Wait for the dogs to pass
- If a dog knocks you over, curl into a ball with you head tucked and hands over your ears and neck.
Don't
- Approach an unfamiliar dog
- Run away from a dog
- Panic or make loud noises
- Disturb a dog that is sleeping, eating or caring for puppies
- Pet a dog without letting it see and sniff you first
- Encourage your dog to play aggressively
- Let small children play with a dog unsupervised
What to do if you get bitten by a dog
Although a very small risk, dogs can carry rabies. Gather information about the dog that bit you including owners name and phone number. Call your health care provider and Arlington Animal Control at 781-646-1212. After reporting an incident to the Arlington Animal Control they will try to contact the owner and be sure the animal is up to date on rabies vaccinations.
Click here to learn more about dog bite prevention.
